Tag: Shalom House

A Living Lesson from Parashat Mishpatim: Community in Action at Shalom House.

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February 12, 2026

A Shabbat gathering shaped by Parashat haShavua, where care, joyful singing, and community came alive.

In anticipation of Shabbat, a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Mila Fleitman, visited the headquarters of Helping Hand Coalition on February 12.

Bozena Gasiorowski warmly welcomed the guests and invited everyone to the table, creating an atmosphere of closeness and care. She opened the gathering by sharing thoughts from Parashat Mishpatim, highlighting responsibility for one another and protecting the weak, values that form the heart of community life.

These ideas soon took shape in real life through Andrea, who shared how believers around the world love Israel and pray for her. She spoke about expressing the responsibility mentioned in the Parasha in practical ways through GAIN Germany bringing help and encouragement to Holocaust survivors. Judy then continued by explaining that today many people who love God, from all over the world, also celebrate His feasts, not because they are Jewish, but because they love the God of Israel and recognize that these are His appointed times. She spoke about walking in His ways and honoring what belongs to Him, reminding everyone that community is strengthened when faith is lived with sincerity and respect.

Bozena then invited Luke Gasiorowski to lead the group into joyful celebration, an essential part of community life. Luke crowned the spiritual part of the gathering with a chain of songs, including Shema Israel (โ€œHear, O Israelโ€), words that have strengthened the children of Israel throughout history, including on October 7, helping them discern the enemy at their door. The music created a joyful and vibrant atmosphere, and everyone joined in singing together with Luke.

The meeting concluded with warm hugs and heartfelt gratitude. Leonid, one of the survivors, honored Bozena with a piece of art he had created despite his poor vision, a deeply moving gesture that touched everyone present. It was a beautiful reminder that community grows through care, faith, music, and shared moments of love.

February 12, 2026 A Shabbat gathering shaped by Parashat haShavua, where care, joyful singing, and community came alive. In anticipation of Shabbat, a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Mila […]

Celebrating Tu Beshvat, New Year for the Trees: A Day of Warmth, Song, and Shared Memories.

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05.02.2026

A group of Holocaust survivors from Haifa visited the HHC headquarters in Caesarea on February 5 to celebrate together the joy of Tu Beshvat, the โ€œNew Year for the Trees.โ€

As always, the guests were warmly welcomed by the gracious hostess, Bozena Gasiorowski. From Warsaw, Andrzej Gasiorowski joined by video call to greet everyone and wish the cherished elders a joyful and blessed Tu Beshvat.

Because the groupโ€™s leader, Margarita, was unable to attend due to health reasons, Bozena invited everyone to unite in prayer for her healing. The program then continued with an interactive quiz led by Uliana Istaev, exploring the spiritual meaning of the holiday, beautifully interwoven with songs and passages from the Tanakh. When lunch was served, Uliana guided the participants through the Tu Beshvat seder prayers, creating a meaningful and uplifting shared experience.

As the gathering drew to a close and it was time to say goodbye, one of the guests, Dr. Ella, shared a touching reflection. She said that every time she enters the Helping Hand premises, she feels an atmosphere of love, warmth, and acceptanceโ€”feeling valued and uplifted. She expressed her deepest gratitude to Bozena for creating such a remarkable and welcoming space for the survivors.

05.02.2026 A group of Holocaust survivors from Haifa visited the HHC headquarters in Caesarea on February 5 to celebrate together the joy of Tu Beshvat, the โ€œNew Year for the Trees.โ€ As […]

Caesarea| Creating Space for Healing and Hope at the HHC Home.

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January 22, 2026.

On January 22, the HHC headquarters once again opened its doors and warm atmosphere to a wonderful group of Holocaust survivors from Hadera, led by Sima. The cozy living room quickly filled with a sense of closeness, care, and genuine connection.

Boลผena Gasiorowski warmly welcomed everyone, greeting the cherished guests and introducing the special speakers of the day: Irena Tishchenko and Andrea Wegener.Andrea opened the meeting with heartfelt greetings from the GAIN organization in Germany, which sends love, support, gifts, and essential items to Holocaust survivors in Israel. She shared how deeply believers in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in Germany care for the survivors, pray for them, and stand with them in true solidarity.

The floor was then given to Irena, a professional psychologist and trauma therapist, who had prepared a special seminar tailored to the participantsโ€™ prior requests. She addressed important topics such as anxiety, loneliness, and the feeling of being overwhelmed by the ongoing military situation and the constant flow of news. Irena spoke about ten habits that support emotional well-being, including starting the day in a positive way, maintaining physical activity, staying connected with others, practicing gratitude, noticing small moments of joy, reducing inner tension, and learning healthy ways to engage with the news.The discussion also highlighted the value of the โ€œgolden ageโ€ and the unique opportunity older adults have to share their life experience and wisdom with family and loved ones. One of the women in the group beautifully expressed this by saying, โ€œWhen my great-grandson talks to me, he often says, โ€˜Granny, youโ€™re like my own psychologist!โ€™โ€

The atmosphere was so warm, comfortable, and welcoming that by the end of the meeting, no one wanted to leave. The survivors expressed a heartfelt desire for more gatherings like this in the futureโ€”spaces where listening, understanding, and hope can continue to grow.

January 22, 2026. On January 22, the HHC headquarters once again opened its doors and warm atmosphere to a wonderful group of Holocaust survivors from Hadera, led by Sima. The cozy living […]

Caesarea| Hanukkah at Shalom House: Where Light and Hearts Unite.

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December 18, 2025.

The 18th of December became a meaningful and uplifting day for a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Genya, who gathered at the HHC headquarters in Caesarea to celebrate the Festival of Light โ€” Hanukkah.

The meeting opened with warm and heartfelt greetings from the hostess of the house, Bozena Gasiorowski. In her words, she reminded everyone of the calling of the Jewish people to be a light to the world, and of the importance of staying united with family, friends, and one another. Reuven Bronshtein read his verses dedicated to the Fest of Hanukkah. Bozena then invited the guests to the table, creating an atmosphere filled with care, dignity, and warmth.

The spirit of Hanukkah filled the room with joy and laughter. Uliana Istaeva led an engaging Hanukkah quiz, filled with thoughtful and humorous questions that sparked smiles, memories, and lively participation among the survivors.

After lunch, the celebration continued with a musical program of traditional Hanukkah songs. Familiar melodies echoed through the room, awakening cherished memories and hearts. The gathering once again reminded everyone of the healing power found in shared moments, compassion, and genuine human connection โ€” a true light shining in the darkness.

December 18, 2025. The 18th of December became a meaningful and uplifting day for a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Genya, who gathered at the HHC headquarters in Caesarea […]

Caesarea| Honoring Life and Memory: A Day of Light, Music, and Miracles.

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December 4, 2025

On December 4, 2025, a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Rita Lieberman, visited the Shalom House at the HHC headquarters in Caesarea. The new day opened their hearts to renewed hope โ€” and to a special guest invited to join the gathering. Andrzej and Boลผena Gasiorowski warmly welcomed Yoni Tokayer and the cherished group of visitors.

After Boลผenaโ€™s introduction, Yoni greeted everyone with a warm smile and an uplifting welcome song. Following a delicious lunch, Yoni continued by sharing the biblical story of the first repatriate to the Land of Israel โ€” Jacob, who wrestled with an angel of God and received from Him a new name: Israel โ€” a message drawn from this weekโ€™s Parashat HaShavua.

Yoni then performed a deeply personal song that he and his wife, Nina, wrote after October 7. The song tells the story of how he left for the army, briefly meeting his family on their way to the synagogue, kissing them, and going off to fight for them โ€” without saying out loud that it was war.

The meeting concluded with songs and stories of miracles on the eve of Hanukkah. Yoni shared a touching story of a soldier he met while serving in the reserves, who was reunited with his wife and newborn baby. He ended with a beloved song celebrating another great miracle: the Jewish peopleโ€™s return to Jerusalem.

The gathering was filled with warmth, music, and heartfelt connection. In the quiet light of Hanukkah, everyone was reminded that hope and miracles are still alive.

December 4, 2025 On December 4, 2025, a group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Rita Lieberman, visited the Shalom House at the HHC headquarters in Caesarea. The new day opened […]

Caesarea| Hope in a time of reflection.

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November 27, 2025.

The 27th of November became a day of profound psychological discovery for a group of cherished Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Galina Moiseyev.

The meeting opened with warm greetings from Bozena Gasiorowski, the hostess of the Shalom House. She invited the guests to the table and introduced the special guest โ€” Irena Tishchenko, a psychologist specializing in trauma therapy.

One of the survivors raised the topic of intergenerational relationships within the family, which became the starting point for the lecture. Irena explored emotional stability and the ability to cope with stress, irritation, and inner tension, explaining the physiological aspects of emotions and offering practical tools for self-regulation.

When the discussion turned to emotional burnout and ways to manage it, many listeners were deeply moved. Irena reminded the group that โ€œthe golden age is a time for oneself, and rest should mean freedom from responsibility,โ€ and invited reflection: โ€œWhat am I angry about, and what can I no longer change?โ€

The gathering, filled with sincerity, emotion, and wisdom, reminded everyone of the healing power of shared conversation, compassion, and of Godโ€™s tender care present in every shared moment and human connection.

November 27, 2025. The 27th of November became a day of profound psychological discovery for a group of cherished Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Galina Moiseyev. The meeting opened with warm […]

Caesarea| A Journey Through Emotions That Brought Light to Every Heart.

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November 24, 2025.

On November 24th, the doors of the HHC headquarters once again opened to welcome a cherished group of Holocaust survivors led by Mila Kornikh.

At the very beginning, while Bozena Gasiorowski warmly greeted the guests and introduced them to psychologist and trauma specialist Irena Tishchenko, Samuel Kornikh presented a touching poem dedicated to Bozena and Andrzej. In simple, heartfelt words, he thanked them for their open, giving hearts and for drawing strength from God as they continue their compassionate work.

Irena opened the lecture by explaining that finding a reason to live todayโ€”and creating daily routines that bring small moments of joyโ€”can greatly help in overcoming loneliness.
She then invited the participants to share what motivates them in their everyday lives. Mina said that her joy comes from being with people, and she quoted Marlene Dietrich: โ€œMy happy time is today, not yesterday or tomorrow,โ€ reminding everyone of the beauty hidden in each dayโ€™s simple blessings.

Irena continued by speaking about the importance of connection with the Creatorโ€”a source of comfort, belonging, and strength for anyone seeking purpose, regardless of circumstance.

The meeting soon grew into an open discussion. Participants asked how to manage the difficult emotions that often intensify with age and how to avoid becoming bitter or discouraged. Irena described five emotional spheresโ€”fear, anger, sadness, happiness, and disgustโ€”explaining how each plays a role in our inner life and how understanding them helps calm the storms within.

After this warm and enriching timeโ€”spiritually, emotionally, and sociallyโ€”everyone returned home with lighter hearts and a renewed sense of peace.

November 24, 2025. On November 24th, the doors of the HHC headquarters once again opened to welcome a cherished group of Holocaust survivors led by Mila Kornikh. At the very beginning, while […]

Caesarea| Finding Strength Together in Challenging Times.

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November 6, 2025

On November 6th, a cherished group of Holocaust survivors from Or Akiva, led by Sofia Medvinskaya, gathered at the Shalom House in HHCโ€™s headquarters for a meaningful and uplifting time together. Bozena Gasiorowski welcomed everyone with great warmth and hospitality, creating a home-like atmosphere from the very start.

We were honored to host psychologist Irena Tishchenko, who led a gentle and practical session on coping with stress during difficult seasons. She helped participants understand how the body reacts to pressure and offered simple, effective tools for finding calm and resilience.

Afterward, everyone enjoyed a wholesome lunch, heartfelt conversations, and the comfort of being together. The room was filled with sincerity, encouragement, and a deep sense of connection.

Grateful for every precious moment shared.

November 6, 2025 On November 6th, a cherished group of Holocaust survivors from Or Akiva, led by Sofia Medvinskaya, gathered at the Shalom House in HHCโ€™s headquarters for a meaningful and uplifting […]

Caesarea| Unprecedented time of love and unity with Native American descendants.

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July 30, 2025.

On July 30, 2025, Shalom House at HHC headquarters in Caesarea, hosted by Bozena and Andrzej Gasiorowski, became an unexpected gift of inspiration and connection for all who attended.

Rita Lieberman arrived with her group from Netanya, and the gathering was doubly special โ€” welcoming both Holocaust survivors and descendants of Native American ancestors who had endured the hardships of life on reservations.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Joseph and Dr. Laralyn RiverWind, a Native American couple dedicated to cultural preservation and reconciliation. They shared songs, stories, and teachings from their rich heritage. To the delight of many, their customs revealed striking similarities to Jewish values and traditions. Their visit brought a profound sense of unity and reverence, reminding everyone of the timeless connections that link our cultures.

During the fellowship time, after a nourishing and delicious lunch served by Bozena Gasiorowski, Chief Joseph and Dr. Laralyn RiverWind introduced the ancient Native American tradition of the โ€œSpeaking Stickโ€. This tradition offered each person the opportunity to share personal experiences, words of love, and blessings, while being attentively heard.

As the gathering came to a close, many participants expressed a deep sense of peace, emotional release, and renewed spirit โ€” carrying with them the warmth and inspiration of this extraordinary day.

July 30, 2025. On July 30, 2025, Shalom House at HHC headquarters in Caesarea, hosted by Bozena and Andrzej Gasiorowski, became an unexpected gift of inspiration and connection for all who attended. […]

Shavuot at Shalom House: A Celebration of Music, Meaning, and the Modern Ruth.

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May 26, 2025

On May 26th, Shalom House celebrated the holiday of Shavuot with a lively group of 16 survivors from Nof HaGalil, brought to the beautiful setting of Caesarea by Miriam Weidner.

Bozena welcomed the guests and, since it was a new group, introduced the mission of Helping Hand Coalition Global Forum and its dedication to Holocaust survivors. โ€œToday we are meeting for fellowship and to celebrate a biblical appointed time,โ€ she said. Alona then led us into the meaning of Shavuot through songs and the Book of Ruthโ€”a celebration of the giving of the Torah and the wheat harvest.

The atmosphere was festive and warm, filled with music, dancing, stories, and delicious food. Miriam shared her German background and how her parentsโ€™ upbringing shaped her life, leading her to identify with Ruth, the central figure from the Book of Ruth. The Dietze family followed with a joyful Shavuot performance. The children were thrilled to sing and dance for the elderly, offering both solo and group renditions of traditional songs. Soon, everyone joined in the dancing.

After an energetic hour, a Shavuot-inspired lunch was served, bringing smiles all around. During dessert, personal stories were shared, adding depth to the joyful atmosphere.

As the gathering came to a close, the children sang a few more songs, and gifts, flowers, and words of appreciation were exchanged. The day ended with a group photoโ€”capturing the warmth and unity of this special celebration.

May 26, 2025 On May 26th, Shalom House celebrated the holiday of Shavuot with a lively group of 16 survivors from Nof HaGalil, brought to the beautiful setting of Caesarea by Miriam […]

A Day of Eyecare and Connection at Shalom House.

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May 16, 2025

On May 16, 2025, Shalom House at the HHC headquarters welcomed a beloved group of visitors from Netanya, led by Mila Fleitman. Their visit coincided with a special eye clinic for Holocaust survivorsโ€”a day filled with care, connection, and heartfelt moments.

The gathering began with a warm welcome from Bozena Gasiorowski, setting the tone for a meaningful afternoon. She was followed by David and Fongโ€”Sarah Gasiorowskiโ€™s parents and two dedicated volunteers representing a faith community in the United Statesโ€”who shared words of blessing and encouragement.

A joyful surprise followed as everyone sang โ€œHappy Birthdayโ€ to Fong, who was presented with a festive birthday cake, adding a personal and celebratory touch to the event.

Lunch was served, followed by dessert, and then guests were invited one by one for eye checkups in a nearby room. Each person received a pair of glassesโ€”for both vision and sun protection. These thoughtful gifts were received with gratitude and smiles.

The spirit of the day rose even higher as Uliana Istaev offered a moving musical performance and shared her testimony of faith. She spoke of how Godโ€™s care had carried her through lifeโ€™s challenges, touching hearts and bringing some listeners to tears.

The visit concluded with warm words of thanks from Mila Fleitman, who expressed deep appreciation to the HHC teamโ€”and to Bozena personallyโ€”for their kindness, hospitality, and dedication. A thoughtful gift closed the afternoon, leaving behind lasting memories of comfort, joy, and shared faith.

May 16, 2025 On May 16, 2025, Shalom House at the HHC headquarters welcomed a beloved group of visitors from Netanya, led by Mila Fleitman. Their visit coincided with a special eye […]

Victory Remembered: Honoring Holocaust Survivors on May 9th โ€“ in Shalom House.

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May 9, 2025

One of the most meaningful and memorable days for Holocaust survivors across Israel is May 9thโ€”Victory Day. On this significant occasion, the HHC team organized a special Shalom House gathering for a group of ghetto survivors from Netanya, led by Ghenia.

Before a delicious and healthy lunch was served, Bozena Gasiorowski welcomed the honored guests with heartfelt words of love and respect. She paid tribute to their courage and endurance during the Holocaustโ€”those who triumphed over darkness and evil 80 years ago, emerging from the fire of life to carry their legacy forward for future generations.In response, Ghenia expressed sincere gratitude on behalf of the group for being invited to Shalom House on such a meaningful dayโ€”one that honors the memory of those who perished during World War II and celebrates the victory over Nazism.

Throughout the gathering, participants shared profound reflections. Ruven Bronshtein recited his own moving poetry, reflecting on his experiences of survival in the ghetto and the new life he found in Israel.Adding a deeply personal touch to the event, Bruce Becker and Donna Outt took another step to care for the survivors by providing much-needed eyeglasses through the eye clinic they brought to Israel. Each Holocaust survivor received a pair of glasses, symbolizing not just improved vision, but renewed care and dignity.

The event concluded with a musical performance by Uliana Istaev, who sang songs from the WWII era as well as beloved Israeli melodiesโ€”reminding everyone of God of Israel, who has always been the source of strength and victory for His chosen people.

May 9, 2025 One of the most meaningful and memorable days for Holocaust survivors across Israel is May 9thโ€”Victory Day. On this significant occasion, the HHC team organized a special Shalom House […]

A Prayer in Every Note: Honoring Memory, Gratitude, and Life at Shalom House.

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May 5, 2025

On May 5, 2025โ€”the eve of Victory Day, a date of deep significance for Holocaust survivorsโ€”two cherished groups gathered in the garden patio of Shalom House at HHCโ€™s Caesarea headquarters. Many attendees were children of those who had served on the front lines or endured the suffering of the ghettos, carrying forward stories of resilience and faith.The gathering brought together survivors from Netanya, led by Mila Kornikh, and Or Akiva, led by Sophia Medwinskaya.

They were warmly welcomed by Boลผena Gasiorowski, who introduced special guests David and Fong Risardโ€”parents of Sarah Gasiorowski. The couple had traveled from Santa Barbara, California, bringing love and heartfelt blessings from their community of believers who remain committed to supporting Holocaust survivors in Israel.Bruce Becker and Donna Outt then shared how they were led to launch a mobile eye clinic a few years ago, offering free glasses and care, especially for survivors. Now, they return regularly to continue this mission of compassion and service.

The heart of the gathering was a powerful live concert by world-renowned German violinist Alexander Fridman, brother of Mila Kornikh. His performance stirred deep emotion, weaving classical works with songs that evoked the early memories of those present. When he played a beloved waltz from their youth, two women rose to dance, their faces lit with joy and remembrance.

The concert closed with a piece titled โ€œThank You for All You Have Created and Given Me.โ€ Before playing, Alexander spoke of it as a prayerโ€”a tribute to God for lifeโ€™s blessings, friendships, and the gift of each moment.As the music gently faded, hearts were full. The garden echoed with more than melodiesโ€”it held the weight of memory, the warmth of community, and the quiet strength of enduring faith.

May 5, 2025 On May 5, 2025โ€”the eve of Victory Day, a date of deep significance for Holocaust survivorsโ€”two cherished groups gathered in the garden patio of Shalom House at HHCโ€™s Caesarea […]

Vision for the Eyes, Music for the Soul: Another Special Visit to Shalom House.

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May 2, 2025.

On May 2, 2025, the tranquil garden terrace of HHCโ€™s Caesarea headquarters welcomed a cherished group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Galina Moyseyev, for another heartfelt visit to Shalom House. The day was filled with care, connection, and joyful moments that touched both body and spirit.

Boลผena Gasiorowski greeted the group warmly and introduced them to one of Helping Hand Coalitionโ€™s impactful projectsโ€”the mobile eye clinic. Thanks to the continued dedication of Bruce Becker and Donna Outt each guest received a thorough vision check-up, along with prescription glasses and sunglasses, offered with love and dignity.After a delicious and refreshing lunch, Lena Lustenko led a beautiful musical program featuring beloved songs from the survivorsโ€™ youth. One of the guests, Israel, added a special moment by joining in and leading a heartfelt sing-along that brought smiles and gentle laughter to all.

As the visit drew to a close, one survivor shared from the heart:โ€œWe feel so cared for and loved through everything you do for us. Even though Bruce and Donna are elderly themselves, we can feel their patience and empathy. We are deeply touched.โ€The day ended with everyone smiling for a group photoโ€”a simple but special way to remember the kindness, joy, and connection they experienced together.

May 2, 2025. On May 2, 2025, the tranquil garden terrace of HHCโ€™s Caesarea headquarters welcomed a cherished group of Holocaust survivors from Netanya, led by Galina Moyseyev, for another heartfelt visit […]

A Joyful Reunion of Remembrance and Hope: Polish Friends and Holocaust Survivors Celebrate Passover at Shalom House.

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April 3, 2025

On April 3, 2025, a deeply moving reunion took place at Shalom House in Caesarea. Holocaust survivors from Hadera, led by Seema Fiedosova, came together to celebrate Passover with their long-time friends and sponsors from Polandโ€”a moment filled with both joyful connection and heartfelt remembrance.

Pastor Jurek Rycharski, his son pastor Filip Rycharski and pastor Janusz Wanat traveled to Israel to reunite with survivors they had met years ago. The bond formed in those early encounters had endured, and this long-awaited visit brought back cherished memories and renewed hope.

The gathering opened with warm words of welcome from Bozena and Andre Gasiorowski, who graciously introduced the guests. Early in the program, Rachel Tzeitlin offered a heartfelt prayer for the safety of Israeli soldiersโ€”our sons, daughters, and grandchildrenโ€”setting a tone of reverence and reflection.

The Passover celebration began with a blessing from Bozena, followed by a festive and joyful meal. Pastor Jurek later addressed the group, sharing words of love and encouragement from many in Poland, affirming Godโ€™s steadfast care for His people.

Andre Gasiorowski shared a remarkable historical story from Jurekโ€™s hometown, where a local Polish prince had once welcomed Jews and granted them legal protection. This act of courage later inspired the king to extend these protections nationwide, making Poland the only European country at the time to offer official refuge to Jews fleeing persecution.

The celebration continued with nice music, as Irina Corolyova, leader of the Hadera Survivorsโ€™ Choir, performed Passover songs alongside Tatyana Kravits. Raisa Ravva, a 90-year-old survivor, moved everyone by reciting verses from Konstantin Simonov, reminding all of the enduring power of love and family.

The gathering closed with a touching performance by Uliana Istaev, who sang from the Pesach Haggadah, leaving everyone uplifted and assured of Godโ€™s enduring protection over His beloved people.

April 3, 2025 On April 3, 2025, a deeply moving reunion took place at Shalom House in Caesarea. Holocaust survivors from Hadera, led by Seema Fiedosova, came together to celebrate Passover with […]